Artificial intelligence and optometric imaging have joined forces — and at Big City Optical, that’s not just some futuristic pitch. It’s what’s happening right now.
Seeing the Future with Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way eye care professionals diagnose and manage disease — and nowhere is that shift more pronounced than in the use of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). This non-invasive imaging method gives optometrists a microscopic view into the layers of the retina, making it easier to track changes that may signal trouble.
But even the clearest image requires interpretation. That’s where AI comes in.
At Big City Optical, advanced AI tools are trained to read OCT scans with incredible precision. These algorithms can identify the early signs of diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma — sometimes even before symptoms begin. That means patients get treated earlier, with better outcomes and fewer surprises down the line.
Why OCT Matters for Eye Disease
OCT scans work like ultrasounds, but with light instead of sound waves. The result is a cross-sectional view of the retina — showing details too fine to catch with standard imaging. It’s the gold standard for evaluating a wide range of eye conditions, including:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Glaucoma
- Retinal vein occlusion
- Macular edema
Traditionally, these scans require manual analysis by an eye doctor. That takes time, and even the best-trained eyes can miss early-stage changes that don’t yet look like classic disease. AI tools don’t get tired. They scan for microscopic patterns across thousands of images, giving optometrists a second set of (very sharp) eyes.
Big City Optical’s AI Advantage
Plenty of practices are starting to explore AI in diagnostics — but at Big City Optical, it’s already in use across multiple locations. Our technology doesn’t just supplement care; it raises the standard for what patients should expect from a modern eye exam.
By integrating AI with OCT, the team at the Big City Optical can:
- Spot potential issues before symptoms start.
- Track tiny changes in retinal health over time.
- Offer more accurate diagnoses, faster.
- Personalize treatment plans based on precise retinal biomarkers.
For patients, this translates to better long-term vision outcomes. For eye doctors, it means having the most up-to-date information at their fingertips — without delay.
AI-Powered Eye Care Means More Than Just Better Images
One of the most promising applications of AI in OCT imaging is its ability to quantify biomarkers. These are the subtle, sometimes invisible signs that a disease is developing or progressing. When AI measures these biomarkers accurately, doctors can tailor treatments more precisely. That could mean changing a medication, scheduling more frequent follow-ups, or intervening earlier to prevent damage.
This is precision medicine at work — and it’s happening right now at Big City Optical.
Expert Eyes Meet Intelligent Tech
Technology is only as good as the professionals using it. At Big City Optical, every AI-assisted scan is reviewed by experienced optometrists who know how to combine algorithmic data with real-world clinical experience. It’s this human-plus-machine approach that makes our care so effective.
So, while others are still catching up, the Big City Optical team is already delivering next-level diagnostics to the communities they serve. If you’re ready to experience the most advanced eye care available, request your appointment today at any of our 19 convenient locations throughout Chicago.